Media Release: NSGEU Calls on Government to Keep Flags Flying Outside Schools in South Shore

Dartmouth – The decision by the South Shore Regional Centre for Education to remove flags representing diverse communities harms inclusion and creates an unwelcoming environment for students and staff who identify with marginalized and underrepresented groups, says NSGEU First Vice President Hugh Gillis.

The South Shore Regional Centre for Education issued a directive removing all but the Canada and Nova Scotia flags to be displayed outside schools. All other flags, such as Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotian, Acadian, and 2SLGBTQ+ were directed to be taken down.

“Our schools are the hearts of our communities, they are places where students and staff should feel welcome, seen and part of the overall community,” said Gillis. “Removing these community symbols, while leaving only two flags up, sends a concerning message that people who identify with these groups are not as important or welcome in our schools. It’s a very disappointing message from the South Shore Regional Centre for Education and one that should be reversed immediately.”

The SSRCE said part of the reason for the decision was cost, as the flags get ripped or damaged and its costly to replace the flags.

“Where is the Minister of Education in all this? What will government do to reverse this poor decision?” said Gillis. “The cost of replacing flags as they wear out can not be more than the cost to a child who no longer see’s their heritage and community on display outside their school.”

“We are calling on the Premier and Minister to stand up for the students and staff who deserve to feel welcome and included in their own school.”